1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 118 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2900 mm |
